February 2024

Ice can slow ORCA poets down — but it can’t stop them! After having to reschedule the competition due to the windy winter storms that rocked Oregon, Poetry Out Loud held its competition on Thursday, January 25. Members showed off their performance chops through dramatic recitation of poems of their choice. 

Poetry Out Loud is an ORCA chapter of a nationwide high school club committed to growing students’ communication skills, building confidence, and exploring the magic of poetry. While participating in the club, students learn how to hold a strong stage presence, diminish stage fright, and grow their public speaking skills. 

Every year, ORCA hosts a school-wide Poetry Out Loud event. Members get the opportunity to partake in school-wide competitions, where they are judged by their “accuracy, physical presence, voice and articulation, dramatic appropriateness, level of complexity, evidence of understanding, and overall performance.” From there, a winner is announced and goes on to represent ORCA at the state semi-finals.

Every participant was able to leave their mark this year, but only one can come out on top. Senna A., a Poetry Out Loud competitor and ORCA junior, emerged victorious at ORCA’s 2024 Poetry Out Loud competition, with 11th grader Dulce Wiles finishing a close second.

Senna A. performed the poems “Dirge without Music” by Edna St. Vincent Millay and “Things You May Find Hidden In My Ear” by Mosab Abu Toha. Dulce Wiles, who came in a very close second, recited “We Are Of A Tribe” by Alberto Rios and “Wind, Water, and Stone” by Octavio Paz.

Both Senna A. and Wiles will have the honor of representing ORCA in the semi-finals. Victory there will earn the chance to participate in the Oregon State Poetry Out Loud championship, which will be held in Salem on March 9. 

“I cannot say enough how hard and wonderful competing in Poetry Out Loud is,” commented Stephanie Imig, the club advisor. “Memorizing and reciting poems in front of an audience is intellectually challenging, and nerve-wracking! But the joy of being able to bring life to a beautiful poem and share that gift with an audience is one that is hard to understand until someone has done it. As the faculty advisor for Poetry Out Loud, I am always so honored and humbled to go on this journey with such a special group of students each year.”

Are you a fisherman? Because you got us hooked with these pickup lines!

Valentine's Day is just around the corner. Do you have what it takes to come up with the best pickup line? It's time to show off your wits and creativity with The Current's Pickup Lines contest!

Whether it’s a witty one-liner or a “roses are red” poem, we want to hear your best pickup lines. Submit your entries to this form by February 23. Make it witty, lighthearted, and fun!

Submissions will be judged on originality, creativity, and humor. Please be sure to keep them both school-appropriate and respectful. 

While you may not be able to use your pickup lines in live classes, you can certainly have fun and submit them for a chance to appear in next month’s article. So bring your A-game, get creative, and have fun!

Mean Girls, famous for its brilliantly witty quotes like, “On Wednesdays, we wear pink,” and “Get in, loser, we’re going shopping,” was released in 2004 and instantly became a classic among the era of early 2000s films. The movie, written by Tina Fey and Rosalind Wisemen, detailed a previously homeschooled girl, Cady Heron, attending a classic high school where she learn the effects of popularity, the color pink, and the Plastics. 

The 2004 film starred A-list actors including Lindsay Lohan as Cady Heron, Amanda Seyfried as Karen Smith, and Jonathan Bennett as Aaron Samuels. 

20 years later, Mean Girls has resurfaced again in theaters with its 2024 musical adaptation starring pop singer Reneé Rapp as Regina George and actress Angourie Rice playing the role of Cady Heron. 

Boasting its marvelously intense ballads, like “World Burn” and “Stupid with Love,” and Gen Z flair, Mean Girls provides a sense of maturity to the film that wasn’t present in the original juvenile-esqe 2004 Mean Girls.

While the 2024 version was able to shine a light on the importance of inclusivity and cultural mentions, it lacked when it came to setting them apart from the original. Many of the quotes from the 2004 movie were still present in the new remake, but there wasn’t the excitement of new plot lines and twists. If the previous film hadn’t existed, it would instantly be a Gen Z staple, but with the existence of Tina Fey’s original creation, it didn’t quite provide a meaningful update.

The all-star cast mildly lived up to expectations, with some of the actors doing a slightly worse performance in comparison to the original. However, one actor, or may it be said, actress was even better than the original. Regina George, played by Rachel McAdams in the 2004 film, was brought into a new era by Reneé Rapp, and her musical acrobatics and passive-aggressive sassiness provided a new vibe and aesthetic for the classic leader of the Plastics. 

In addition to Rapp, Christopher Briney, recently popularized due to his part as Conrad on Prime Video’s series The Summer I Turned Pretty, transformed jock Aaron Samuels, known for his charm and charisma, into a real sweetheart. 

The greater sense of cultural diversity was a particularly noticeable part of the remake. Gretchen Wieners, before her gorgeous ballad to Regina, mentions the role of her abuelita in her life and Karen Smith soon became Karen Shetty to honor the South Indian background of the new actress, Avantika. 

Additionally, students at North Shore High were updated to feature a less idealistic approach to an American high school. You’ll see students in dark clothing, brooding in corners, others on their phones during class, and lots with sweats and hoodies on. 

While staying true to the plotline, Mean Girls was also able to acknowledge the injustices and wrongs in the world with Auli'i Cravalho’s song, “I’d Rather Be Me.” It brings a new power of addressing issues in the world without straying from the campy focus of the movie. 

Although the new and updated clothing, technology, and brands were apparent in the 2024 edition, the brand promotion was overkill. In the intro of the movie, you immediately segue into an Apple ad with the feature of their new iPhone’s camera, later in the film you see Elf Cosmetics products, there are TikTok features, and to end the film, Cady Heron uses a Samsung Galaxy Flip phone to take selfies. The movie was simply one big ad, and not always in good fashion.

Despite its faults, the 2024 adaptation of Mean Girls will go down in history as one of the best remakes of the decade. With incredible Broadway-style musical pieces and an astounding plotline that stays true to the original, Mean Girls will continue to unite fans for years to come. 

The verdict: 8/10

ORCA’s ASCEND program provides high schoolers with the unique opportunity to gain career-readiness skills for success after high school. With pathways from Business Management to Medical Science, ASCEND students have the chance to participate in national career-focused organizations, take part in internships, and earn industry certificates and experience. 

Starting in February, ORCA’s ASCEND program will offer students an exciting opportunity to jumpstart their academic and post-high school careers with their newly launched National Technical Honor Society.

The National Technical Honor Society (NTHS) is an educational non-profit organization that recognizes the achievements of top students in career and technical education programs. NTHS awards over $300,000 of scholarships annually to students with high academic achievements and supports members seeking postsecondary education. 

By joining the program, students can gain support in building their career portfolio, serve in leadership roles, and connect with global career and educational networks. In addition, members will receive a membership certificate in their professional portfolios, with special recognition for graduating seniors, including an official NTHS diploma seal, graduation tassel, and lapel pin. 

The four core tenets of NTHS provide focus so each chapter can set up activities to help members grow their career skills. These tenets are career development, leadership, service, and recognition opportunities.

The program is now open for applications, and members are accepted monthly. There is a $30 initial fee to sign up and an additional $5 annual cost for continued membership. 

To apply for the program, students must meet a few criteria, including being in an ASCEND pathway with a minimum 3.0 GPA, completing three credits of ASCEND-pathway-specific courses (including Work-Based Learning), and maintaining a sufficient attendance record. 

Students who qualify based on the minimum prerequisite are automatically placed in the NTHS course for an option to apply and find out more.

ORCA junior Emily Pennington is excited about being a new member of the program. “I applied for NTHS because my dream after high school is to become a project manager for the Disney company!” she explains. 

As a part of the Business Management pathway, Pennington has greatly benefited from the program by gaining access to numerous resources to get started, including a career readiness portal and the opportunity to earn micro-credentials. “I am very excited for this opportunity and to be a part of this incredible program to help jumpstart my future!” she adds. 

“I am happy to help all our students work toward their goals toward a career and be able to provide additional resources in accomplishing career-related goals through career technical education,” says ORCA teacher Cathy Hay. As NTHS advisor and master teacher of the ASCEND Computer Science program, she is committed to supporting students in developing the skills they need to excel in the competitive workforce. 

Additionally, all master teachers of each ASCEND pathway are added as honorary members to provide additional support to career-specific questions. 

Whether it's pursuing higher education or entering the workforce, students in ORCA's National Technical Honor Society have the special opportunity to gain the essential skills to be successful in their future careers and take their achievements to the next level. 

What's whimsical, sweet, and full of scrumdidlyumptious treats? 

That would be Paul King’s latest movie, Wonka, a musical origin story of candy-coated wonder and pure imagination. 

Ronald Dahls’ beloved novel Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, on which the story is based, has already inspired its share of movie adaptations: There’s Tim Burton’s eccentric and somewhat sinister 2005 version, starring Johnny Depp, and Mel Stuart’s 1971 picture with Gene Wilder, whose sly and enigmatic performance represents the gold standard of Wonka representation. 

Working with Paddington 2 screenwriter Simon Farnaby, director Paul King puts his own brand on the lore of Wonka. It’s a careful departure from the representation of Willy Wonka that we’re most familiar with, building upon the previous movies in a respectful way while creating its own world.

Stepping into the role of the titular chocolatier is a difficult set of shoes to fill, but Timothée Chalamet puts his own spin on the character as a young, wide-eyed Willy Wonka full of charisma, with a dream of one day opening his own candy factory. It’s unlike the eccentric mad-hatter portrayed by the original Wonka films or even Chalamet's previous dramatic roles in Dune and Lady Bird, but his charming performance proves his capabilities of acting in a wide range of roles. 

The rest of the stellar cast includes Calah Lane, Olivia Colman, and Keegan-Michael Key, who all blend perfectly into their supporting roles. Hugh Grant as the Oompa-Loompa is perhaps one of the best and most unexpected highlights of the movie. The film is full of the vibrant and quirky characters you would expect from a Wonka movie, and there isn't a weak link among them. 

Notably, the film's greatest strength lies in its visual feast. Set in a quaint town that resembles London and Paris, the vibrant set and costume design bring Wonka’s imaginative world to life in all its glory, where the visual aesthetics are nothing short of spectacular. Much of this is credited to Nathan Crowley, the production designer behind films like The Dark Knight and Interstellar, bringing meticulous attention to the film's details and design. Coupled with Paul King's signature whimsical flair, the movie crafts a lighthearted and magical atmosphere reminiscent of his previous Paddington films. 

Wonka’s full-blown musical aspect is another big part of the film, which slightly draws away from the previous adaptations it was based on. The movie pays homage to the 1971 original, with a rendition of the classic song “Pure Imagination,” though the bulk of the film introduces an original soundtrack written by Neil Hammon. The opening number, “A Hatful of Dreams,” sung by Chalamet, has a classic and jaunty musical feel, which establishes the fantastical atmosphere of the film within the first few minutes. The rest of the musical numbers, filled with lavish spectacle, are thoroughly enjoyable but don't quite have the unique qualities to stand out, falling to generic melodies and forgettable lyrics. 

Wonka's charm is then somewhat diminished by its chaotic story. The plot tends to get tangled up in convoluted storylines and a heavy reliance on plot conveniences, further exacerbated by the film's sudden shift towards musical territory. The inconsistent and borderline nonsensical plot doesn't seem to care about making sense or reason, either – much like the rising climax scene of a VFX giraffe chasing a frantic Rowan Atkinson through a church. 

Don’t think too much about it. Just suspend your disbelief and enjoy it. 

The story is unapologetically formulaic as well, but self-aware enough that the corny puns and gags don’t get too overbearing. 

At its best, Wonka is fun for what it is: a sweet, scrumdiddlyumptious treat filled with musical wonder and fantastic performances, but its chaotic story and forgettable soundtrack leave it feeling bittersweet. 

In the end, Wonka doesn't quite reach the heights of the original films, but it doesn't have to. Unlike Tim Burton's 2005 version, Paul King notes that he didn't want to reinvent the story but instead created Wonka as a companion piece to the iconic Gene Wilder film. It's not likely going to win any golden tickets to grand cinematic achievements. Instead, it’s content to inspire laughter, a few sentimental tears, and cheers when the villains are defeated. 

But if there’s one thing this movie proves, it’s that a little bit of candy makes everything better, even if it’s a mixed bag of treats like Wonka. 

The verdict: 7/10

ORCA’s Photography & Film Club is for students in middle and high school who enjoy taking pictures, regardless of their skill level. This club was founded by freshmen students Lily Dixon and Leesy L., with Mark James as the advisor. 

“Photography & Film Club has been a rollercoaster of fun,” Dixon says, as co-founder of the club. “As a group, we've gotten to share our artistic abilities through mini films and photographs, and meet other students in the process.” 

“In our ORCA photography community we have tons of talented students that are always willing to take constructive feedback to hone their skills and provide the same for others,” she adds. “It's been a special experience being able to be amongst such talented and remarkable people and I hope the club will continue to grow as the months and years go on.”

Photography & Film Club is a great place where students with the same hobby get to socialize and make friends with other students who share a passion for photography and videography. Club members participate in fun bi-weekly meetings and discussion boards to hang out with old friends, along with making new ones. 

“Photo club is an awesome club to share photography with others and converse with people that share a hobby!” says Wesley Robbins, a 10th grade photography student. “And, of course, nerd out about camera stuff!”

“The one thing I like most about Photography & Film Club is that the discussions are very active, and it's just a bunch of camera nerds having fun talking to each other. Not only do we share photos, but we are also all friends,” freshman Keagan S. shares. “I also like that the meetings are very organized as well. Overall, this is one of my favorite clubs!”

Photography & Film Club is a popular activity with students, providing a wonderful opportunity for high and middle school students to socialize with other people who enjoy photography and just have fun. It is one of ORCA’s newer clubs and everyone’s excited to see new members join and how this club evolves.

From February 12-16, ORCA students will have the chance to show their school spirit and unique fashion choices for Oregon Charter Academy's 2024 Spirit Week.

The HS Student Government has planned an interactive week of fun where students can get creative with the five assigned themes and flaunt them to their friends and in live classes. Students will dress up in accordance with the themes, a different category each day, and parade around live classes boldly flourishing their unique style.

If students are especially confident about their costumes, they can take a picture of themselves and submit it to Student Government for the Spirit Week competition. Student Government will then review each student’s fabulous costumes and vote on the winners. 

Every ORCA student is invited to submit their creative costumes to the contest. There will be two winners chosen from each theme, with 10 winners total, who will receive special ORCA water bottles as prizes.  

This year’s themes for Spirit Week include Dressy Casual Day, Younger You Day, Neon Day, College Day, and Movie Day, from Monday to Friday, respectively. All themes are wracked with creativity, well-thought-out, and fun to participate in.

“Spirit week is one of the best events of the year!” says Student Government Co-VP Reagan Stanek. “Student participation makes it so much fun. This year we have some of my favorite themes yet!”

Stay tuned for more Spirit Week details on the Student Government website and the principal’s announcement. 

Gear up your public speaking skills to the next level with Student Government’s new Presidential Workshop, “Speak Now.”

Student Government President Grace Peterson is back with an exciting new workshop on February 23. From 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., this Taylor Swift-themed workshop will feature tips and tricks for public speaking and building leadership skills.

According to Peterson, developing strong communication skills is essential to becoming smart and confident leaders. “Whether it be presenting on a stage or calling your teacher, public speaking ques are happening,” she says. “It's imperative that we all find tricks that work for us and become our best, confident selves.”



These workshops aim to promote student engagement and participation with an interactive session for students to ask questions and further engage in their learning. There will also be resources for students to find additional information and support after the event. 

Peterson hosted her first Presidential Workshop, “Better Than Revenge,” last December with tips on resolving conflicts and working with different communication styles. After a successful event, she is excited to return with a new event to support the ORCA community. 

“It was an honor getting to meet and work with my fellow students in the first workshop,” she says. “I've definitely taken notes on how to better the presentation and give the best service I can. Thank you to everyone who showed up last time. I'm really looking forward to meeting new people and saying hi to old friends and acquaintances.”

The virtual event is open to grades 6-12, and the Zoom link can be found on Field Trip Central. For any questions on the event, please don’t hesitate to contact Student Government or President Grace Peterson. 

Oregon Charter Academy just launched a new form of support for middle school students called the Peer Tutoring Center. You can check this out on your ORCA dashboard or in your courses list. 

Once you click on Peer Tutoring, there is an option to go to High School Tutors and Middle School Tutors. There are biographies of all the tutors to check out, as well as a list of what subjects they offer help with. You can click on "Schedule An Appointment" to book a one-on-one session with each tutor. Tutoring is generally open on Wednesdays and Fridays, although available times are limited. Student tutors run the sessions, and ORCA teachers are there to help supervise. 

There are now eight middle school tutors available. They are all eighth graders and are willing to help with various subjects, from math to electives. If you are interested in booking an appointment with one of the peer tutors, please do so through your Canvas Peer Tutoring course. 

“I can’t wait to help other middle schoolers out and be a peer tutor,” says one of the middle school peer tutors, Lily Sargent. “I want to help others understand and enjoy all the subjects as much as I do!”

If you have further questions about the Middle School Peer Tutoring program, please feel free to contact ORCA Teacher Jami Roos. Tutors will be available for the second semester starting Wednesday, February 7.

When attending an online school like ORCA, it is important to treat others the way you would if you were in an in-person classroom setting. With Zoom, there are many different ways to utilize the reactions, chat, screen sharing, and whiteboards to enhance your learning. Here are a few tips for being a responsible student in a virtual classroom. 

Being Respectful

It's always good to keep in mind being respectful to others while also appreciating that every individual is different and does things in their own way. Staying respectful in the chat for Zoom meetings is also important for other people to not only stay focused but be able to ask questions as well.

Staying Engaged

Staying active and involved are good ways to be successful in your online classes. There are many ways to stay engaged, such as asking related questions, using reactions to show your understanding, taking notes, and using your mic and camera if you are comfortable doing so.

Staying on Topic

During meetings, it is critical to stay on topic at all times unless the teacher allows sharing or chatting time for students. The chat should also stay on topic throughout the meeting because many students may find it difficult to focus in class when the chat is being used improperly.

Technology Issues

Whenever you have a problem connecting to Zoom or experience sound issues and other tech difficulties, there is one efficient way to handle these problem. ORCA’s free resource, known as the ORCA Zendesk, has a bank of helpful articles written by ORCA’s tech support people, SYS Education, also known as the Helpdesk. There are loads of answers to issues with everything from your Chromebook to your Zoom meeting troubles. All you have to do to use Zendesk is search using the search bar in the link. If you can't find the answer you need, you can reach out to the Helpdesk using the golden icon in the bottom left of most Canvas pages (look for a headset-wearing operator and some gears). You can tell them what problem you are having and wait for a response from the quick and efficient tech staff. Their office hours are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. 

Zoom Reactions

It is important to raise your hand when you have a question, just like in an in-person classroom, because interrupting a teacher can be distracting to the class. This is when using the reactions in Zoom can be helpful. With the Zoom reactions, you can raise your hand, answer yes and no, let the teacher know when you are away, and so much more. Zoom reactions are incredibly beneficial to all students.

Please use our Zendesk as a place to search for known tech support issues. If you have questions about the best ways to engage in your classes, talk to your teachers or book a middle or high school tutor.

Fresh from the oven, the results from the cookie poll are in. 

Last month, The Current hosted a poll to find the best cookie flavor. ORCA students and staff voted for a cookie of their choice or picked from chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, sugar cookie, Oreo, snickerdoodle, and peanut butter. 

“All cookies are delicious,” one student commented. “I refuse to pick just one.” 

The votes are tallied, and the grand winner of the cookie poll is…chocolate chip! 

“Chocolate chip may be plain, but it will ALWAYS be the best and simplest cookie,” one student contended. Another went on to describe the gooey chips and the splendid texture that comes from a chocolate chip cookie. 

“There is a wide variety of cookies, all having niche tastes that serve the consumer's needs,” added another avid chocolate chip supporter. “Yet, chocolate chip is a classic that can be customized for a bit of flare or left plain for the simplistic childhood nostalgia. It isn't controversial like oatmeal raisin, possibly dangerous like peanut butter, frankly boring like sugar, or modern like Oreo. Chocolate chip is beloved by all, lacing together generations of families.” 

Oreos, sugar cookies, and snickerdoodles came in second place, while oatmeal raisin and peanut butter were tied for third. 

“I'm not a huge sweets person but when it comes to sugar cookies, I'll continue to shove them in my mouth until I have a stomach ache,” a voter commented. 

“Oreos are like having two cookies at once,” another student argued, adding more is better. 

“Oatmeal Raisin is not just for grandmas, it's for us all, and it knows it,” one respondent said, strongly convinced of oatmeal raisin supremacy. 

Many poll voters were very passionate about their choices and defended them to the end. 

Chocolate chip may have been the winner of this poll, but any cookie is a good cookie. Baking and eating cookies can be fun, but the real joy is in sharing them with friends and family.

Calling all hobbyists, talented individuals, and tinkerers! Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and sometimes choosing the right gift for someone can be challenging. Whether it is a friendly note or something a little more, there are a variety of formats through which you can demonstrate your love. From the classic modes of poetry and candy hearts to more abstract visual art, the possibilities are endless!

Here are ten creative ways to create a Valentine’s Day gift this year.

Animation

For anyone who loves to tinker or wants to try something new, animations can bring a whole new level to a gift. While testing the limits of 2D or 3D animations, each element tells a story beyond the usual spoken words. With a creative outlet to utilize or even find a new talent, animation is a fun and unique way to make a special gift. 

Cooking and Baking

Whether it is sweet or savory, cooking is the sweetest way to show love and appreciation. With endless flavor combinations, each treat is a special way to show a person how much they mean to you. 

Crafts and Cards
Known for being decorative and creative, cards can bring back the classic tradition of Valentine’s Day. Customizing a traditional card into a 3D visual or a pop-up card through your crafting prowess can add a special touch.

Digital Art

The digital environment can hold many challenges when it comes to art, but there are plenty of digital art tools that can compensate for that. Whether it is to draw yourself with a special individual, draw their favorite character, or vice versa, the endless combinations of colors and designs can be the perfect way to show you care. 

3D Rendering

If you enjoy tinkering with computers or like to render in general, creating a Valentine’s Day heart for someone in Blender or another program can bring a whole new dimension to gift giving. With 3D effects that can sweep anyone off their feet, this can provide a unique way to demonstrate the flexibility of 3D creations beyond the usual usage in classes or as a hobby.

Game Development

Game development can bring to life a story of experiences and friendships. With a flexible way of creating characters and elements through customizable features, you can challenge your abilities and think outside the box. It’s a great way to bring your feelings to life, and the possibilities are endless. 

Music

Love is a perfect inspiration for writing lyrics or creating a song that shows how you feel. With lyrics and beats tied to your emotions, working with words can show a friend or family member they are the catchy beat in your heart.

Origami

Paper is abundant, and the folding options are endless. Using traditional Japanese folding methods, in which paper squares can be fashioned into classic hearts in shades of red, pink, or blue, even the smallest gesture can be made meaningful in a simple but memorable way.

Collages

These mixed-up images of your favorite places, animals, or people can bring new meaning to your relationships. With creative ways of positioning the photos, everything will eventually fall into place.

Writing

Writing is a meaningful way to express your feelings for someone special and show a whole new side of yourself. Whether it is realistic fiction, dedication to that special person, or customized fanfiction, pouring your heart onto the page is a sure way to show that you care. 

With plenty of formats you can use to create a gift, quit pondering and start making! Roses are red, violets are blue–how can I craft a Valentine for you?

Heartbeats, connection, flaws, growth, change – humanity in words. 

ORCA’s Literary Magazine, The Waves, is open for submissions. All high school students are encouraged to submit to their newest theme, Human. 

According to the website, the theme encompasses the entirety of human nature, from small moments to big experiences. “Humans can be categorized by the events of our lives,” reads the description. The editors mentioned they wanted a strong emphasis on diversity and change through experiences and identity. 

“I was just thinking about how emotions influence us and our lives, and how they can be strung together and form words into sentences that others can relate to,” says Taylor Byrne, one of the students who manages the magazine. She adds that the theme is meant to be flexible and can be “used in many different ways.” This will be the second issue with Byrne on The Waves team, and she is excited to see the great stories and poems students come up with. 

Students can submit poetry or short stories through their website as long as entries are school-appropriate and match the theme. Submissions are open from February 1 through February 26. Issue III will be launched in March. 

Happy writing!

Students know Ms. Board as “Dorrie,” but many don’t know much about her besides the fact she was an advisory teacher at ORCA's high school level for a long time.

Ms. Board has been an educator for 25 years and a high school advisory teacher at ORCA for 17 years. She assisted students with their elective choices and worked with them to solve various issues each may have had. Before teaching at ORCA, Ms. Board taught multiple subjects at middle school and language arts for a high school in Arizona.

But she has a new role this year. Ms. Board is now a CoRe (Community Resource) Advisor for ORCA for grades K-12. This role involves supporting ORCA students and families experiencing challenging life events and circumstances. She collaborates closely with the CoRe Counselor, Andrea Kyndhail, in this work. Ms. Board enjoys her new role and is excited that she is now able to work with K-12 instead of just high school.

“I love my role as a CoRe advisor,” she says. “I get to make tangible differences in the lives of our more marginalized families while concurrently doing research on more and newer resources to support families. We work with the entire K-12, so being flexible and knowing how to treat people as human on their level is most important.”

Ms. Board also has a busy creative life outside of the classroom. She just submitted two short films that she and a partner created to an online film festival. She is also currently writing her first book and used to work as a podcaster. She loves comics, art, and science fiction. Ms. Board has not only met Mark Hamill, the actor who played Luke Skywalker, but also the creator of The Simpsons, Matt Groening. She is currently working on a degree in Gerontology at Portland Community College.

Yet another interesting fact about Ms. Board is that she used to be an actress. She began acting in high school and continued throughout college. After graduating college, she began to pursue acting at a community theater. Afterwards, she began working at a fringe theater, which is a smaller, non-traditional theater. While she doesn’t currently act, she has a lot of experience in that field, with a BA (Bachelor of Arts) in theater. 

“Theatre absolutely prepared me for teaching,” Ms. Board explains. “After all, I was doing five shows (periods) per school day, and I had to make sure my high-risk kids would be engaged. I often did character voices, comedy, whatever it took to get these kids to learn. I used to call it ‘teachertainment.’”

Ms. Board shares an important piece of advice for students: fearing failure is failure to learn. One quote she lives by is from President Franklin Delano Roosevelt: “Rules are not necessarily sacred, principles are.” 

On Friday, January 26, ORCA students were invited to attend the ORCA Hangouts at the Wilsonville facility. The event was filled with games and friends, just like every month.

The Elementary and Middle School Hangouts went from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., and the High School Hangouts ran from 1-3 p.m. The events began with an icebreaker activity where students and teachers would introduce each other with fun facts and questions about themselves, such as the town they live in, their grade level, hobbies, and answers to Would You Rather questions. 

After the icebreakers wrapped up, students broke off into smaller groups of friends to enjoy fun rounds of games, from Connect 4 to Lord of the Rings chess, Marvel-themed Apples To Apples, Barbie Uno, and more. This fun-filled event allowed students to move back and forth between tables and try out new games and activities. 

“I was able to beat my math teacher at Barbie Uno,” says Student Government President Grace Peterson. “Revenge is best served with a +2 card.”

Between the morning and afternoon Hangouts events, AVID hosted an event for students and families to learn more about the program. There was a wide range of activities, including AVID-themed crosswords, mad libs, origamis, and a group activity to practice Costa’s three levels of questioning, a common activity that students participate in AVID classes. 

Additionally, students were able to share promotional content for ORCA clubs and programs. At the High School Hangouts, Student Government hosted their second “Student Gov Takeover,” where students can send questions to their Instagram and meet the members of Student Government live. The Student Gov Takeover was a popular activity for students who couldn’t make it to the event in person. 

Many attendees spent the day engaged in fun and competitive games with friends and teachers. It was a great opportunity for students to meet their classmates and teachers outside the everyday online environment. 

“Hangouts are a great place to meet other students, see your teachers, and enjoy being a part of the ORCA community,” says ORCA’s Spanish and French teacher Lisa Rollot, a frequent chaperone of the event. “Hope to see you there!”

All students had a great time at the ORCA Hangouts, and the next event on February 16 is expected to be just as fun. Make sure to check out the Field Trip Central and RSVP to attend.

Annually on February 2, we celebrate an event called Groundhog Day. Punxsutawney Phil is famous for his predictions, as he comes out of his burrow to look at the seasons each year. 

In 2022, researchers analyzed a group of U.S. citizens. Six in ten of these Americans found Phil's prediction trustworthy. Studies show that the groundhog’s predictions are only right about 39% of the time. You may be left wondering how this mammal is so trusted and why he is famous for his yearly outlooks. So, how did this odd tradition start, and is there any science to back it up?

Whether you know them as a groundhog, marmot, woodchuck, or land beaver, they are one interesting species. History.com claims these 15-pound creatures live an average lifespan of six to eight years and enjoy roaming on bright and sunny days. Things like grass, clovers, leaves, berries, and insects are part of a groundhog’s preferred diet. 

This so-called rodent meteorologist was first used for its predictions in 1887 in the town of Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. Celebrated in most areas of the U.S. and Canada, The Library of Congress explains this holiday was derived from an old Christian tradition called Candlemas. Each winter, candles would be distributed for winter necessities. The shape and length of the candles represented how long and cold the winter would be. An animal was chosen to further expand their tradition: the fellow hedgehog. After settling in Pennsylvania, the Germans continued practicing their tradition. Hedgehogs were replaced by groundhogs, which had a larger in-state population. Newspaper editors began featuring articles claiming Phil was the world’s most accurate weather-predicting mammal. 

To this day, this tradition is famously celebrated in a small town called Gobblers Knob, Pennsylvania. Thousands of tickets are purchased each year for a chance to attend the Groundhog Day banquet, ball, live prediction, and more. You can view a countdown to the prediction, purchase a commemorative t-shirt, or even enter the “Gobbler’s Knob Got Talent” contest by visiting the official site: groundhog.org.

ORCA offers a variety of in-person events for students to learn, socialize with their peers, and get out of the house. This February, make sure to check out ORCA’s top opportunities and visit Field Trip Central in the Principal’s Corner for more events.

Powell’s City of Books (2/9)

Explore the famous Powell’s City of Books with your grade band on the 9th of February. You will be able to meet ORCA teachers and students, visit the 3,500 different sections of literature genres, and see the iconic largest new and used bookstore in the world.

Coos Bay Towboat Company (2/9)

Learn from Mr. Yates, a towboat operator, about his daily life, the parts/pieces of a towboat, and how they function. There is no cost to attend, and the field trip is open to all grades.

Go STEM Aerospace Lab (2/9)

Visit the Aerospace Lab, where students can build and alter their own rockets while learning basic flight principles. In addition to the experimentation, grades K-12 will learn about the engineering design process through air-powered rockets.

ORCA Hangouts (2/16)

Attend the monthly ORCA hangouts for your grade band to play games, socialize with your classmates, and meet some of your teachers in person. For elementary and middle school, the event will run from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., and for high school, 1-3 p.m.

Bowling at Bullwinkle’s (2/29)

As a fun way to fill out PE exercise logs, you can go bowling at Bullwinkle’s Family Fun Center and show off your strike skills. There is an attendee limit of 24 bowling spots and fees of $6 per person/game and $4 for bowling shoes.

These are just a select few of the many field trips ORCA offers monthly. Check out Field Trip Central in your Principal’s Corner for more events in your area, RSVP information, and details to know before you attend.

Now is a great time to explore new careers and opportunities outside of school. The Portland Workforce Alliance, a non-profit organization partnered with Oregon Charter Academy, offers a wide array of programs for students to explore fast-growing careers in various industries. These in-person opportunities are available to all high school students and take place in the Portland metro area. 

IT Cyber Security Career Day

Spend the morning at the Multnomah County Offices to learn all about cyber security and government. On February 7 from 8:45 a.m. to noon, students can go behind the scenes at one of the most innovative government IT organizations to explore technology and cyber security careers in public service. Industry professionals will also talk about the data systems and technology solutions they use day to day.

Interested in attending? Make sure to RSVP through the student interest and parent/guardian form on the PWA website. 

Oregon Humane Society Career Day

Visit the Oregon Humane Society on February 9 to discover what it’s like to work in animal welfare. From 9 a.m. to noon, students can tour the shelter, meet the animals, and connect with professionals to explore the many careers in this field and learn how to get started.

To RSVP, but sure to fill out the student interest and parent/guardian form on the PWA website.

Opsis Architecture Career Day

Interested in a career designing buildings? Opsis Architecture is a great place to start. 

Get a behind-the-scenes look at one of Portland’s leading firms and learn about what it’s like to work in architecture. Students will get the chance to connect with industry professionals and engage in a hands-on activity involving space and material design. 

Don’t miss this fun event on February 15 from 8:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.

To attend, fill out the student and parent/guardian form on the PWA website. 

Nike Academy Career Day

Business students and entrepreneurs – this Career Day is for you! 

Visit the Nike World Headquarters on February 22 to explore the world of business management and what it’s like to start your own company. From 10:45 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., students can tour the campus, discover the companies that work with Nike, and participate in a fun workshop on starting a business. 

Students can also meet entrepreneurs who are in the Nike Academy program that supports and connects startup businesses. Learn all about marketing, branding, video production, and other real-world skills in business management. Along with that, lunch will be provided as well.

Register through the PWA website by filling the Nike Interest form and parent/guardian form as soon as possible, as available spots are limited. 

Howard S. Wright Career Day 

Explore careers in construction management and trades with Howard S. Wright, Portland’s leading construction company. This program introduces students to the fast-growing industry that builds infrastructure, highways, bridges, and waterways. With a tour of a nearby construction site, students will learn from industry professionals about project management, modeling, and planning and participate in a hands-on activity to see how those plans come to life. 

The event runs from 8:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on February 28. Lunch will also be provided. 

As with any other Career Day, please be sure to fill out the necessary forms on the PWA website. 

These career programs offered through the Portland Workforce Alliance are a great way to explore new fields and learn how to get started in the industry. Be sure to register through the PWA website and Field Trip Central accordingly for these events. Keep an eye out for more PWA career programs in the future. 

You can print The Current’s Oregon Landmarks Crossword HERE. The clues are listed below:

ACROSS

1. This Silverton site is home to a collection of plants and beautiful landscaping and features a display of holiday lights each year (2 words)

3. The most visited nature recreational site in the PNW (2 words)

7. French Renaissance-style building in Portland’s west hills that was built by a well-known publisher of The Oregonian (2 words)

8. A video rental store located in Bend; the last one of its kind

9. This tower serves as a monument and tourist attraction on the Oregon coast (2 words)

10. An iconic volcanic pit (2 words)

DOWN

2. Oregon’s tallest mountain, named after a British admiral (2 words)

4. The largest bookstore in Oregon (2 words)

5. Famous institution for technology and education

6. A tourist attraction in Portland known for its showcase and testing of flowers (2 words)

The answers to the crossword will be published in the March issue of The Current.

Below are the answers to the New Year’s Resolutions Crossword from the January Issue of The Current.

ACROSS

2. Saving money = Actively trying to grow your bank account (2 words)

5. Time management = An effort to use each hour wisely and limit procrastination (2 words)

6. Sleep schedule = A plan to go to bed and get up at the same time daily (2 words)

9. Vegan = A word describing a diet in which people don’t consume any animal products

10. Diet = A plan to eat more healthful

11. Clean = Tidy and neat

12. Routine = A set of actions regularly followed

13. Travel = To go a distance from one destination to another

DOWN

1. Journal = Where people write down their thoughts 

3. Bed = Something you make every morning only to reverse it every night

4. Goals = Specific plans for the future

5. To be read = A term used by hardcore readers for a list of books to start reading (3 words)

7. Exercise = Physical exertion

8. Hobby = An enjoyable activity that one does in their free time

Do you have a school-related question or need some academic advice? ORCA’s National Honor Society and National Junior Honor Society are here to help with an advice column intended to provide answers to all of your educational inquiries.

While it’s amazing to have a restart on my goals in the new semester, I still find myself falling behind and getting unmotivated. How can I stay consistent with my schoolwork?

~ Constance Stacy

Great job planning ahead for the semester! The most important thing to remember is that consistency looks different for everyone. Not fulfilling your goal one day doesn’t mean your goal is over, and developing a growth mindset can help with adaptability. Even if you can’t maintain your habit every day of the new school year, repetition can still take the form of completing a task every other day, every week, etc. Ultimately, you decide what works for you and your schedule! That being said, there are many techniques you can use to maximize your proficiency and keep up with your schoolwork: 

• Make your goals fit the “SMART” framework: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Timely. 

• Represent your goals visually. Whether you use Slides, Canva, or a physical format, associating images with affirmations can solidify your goals. 

• Making a daily or weekly to-do list alongside a long-term schedule can help you organize important tests, budget time to study, and remind you of deadlines. Consider sticking to one online or one physical copy so you don’t lose track of tasks between the two locations. 

• Save your teachers’ numbers in your contacts, and don’t be afraid to ask them questions! You can also reach out to your advisor for personalized advice regarding staying on track. Your teachers are here to help you! 

• If you’d like academic help outside the classroom, take advantage of peer tutoring. Tutors serve middle and high school in all core course areas, and each tutor has their own academic specialties.  

• Keep a notebook or Google Document of questions that come up during your classes that you can bring to your teachers or tutors. 

• Don’t discount the role of a work-life balance. Budget time for breaks, and when planning for scheduled appointments, athletic events, performances, or any other activity, account for how much schoolwork you’ll be missing that day and when you’ll have time to complete it. Pay attention to your teacher’s grading policy regarding late assignments to avoid falling behind. Some classes also offer extensions, so be in communication with your teachers if your plans change. 

• While it’s easy to lose motivation when note-taking, keeping track of information is essential. Consider different ways to take physical notes, typing instead of writing, or draw pictures alongside your notes for visual reminders.

• Reconnect with the meaning behind your schoolwork. Reassessing the interest you have in your electives, considering getting involved in a club, or going on a field trip are all options to heighten your school spirit and see school as more than just a checklist. 

• Finally, identifying your distractors is essential. Maybe you’re consistently distracted by notifications from a group chat, social media, a particular app, or a video game. There are several apps and settings on many devices designed to help you pause non-urgent notifications and limit unnecessary screen time. 

Good luck in the second semester! 

ORCA’s NHS & NJHS 

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